Bask in the Best of Riviera Maya at Impression Moxché by Secrets

Get Wowed at this Ultra Luxury, All-Inclusive Resort near Playa del Carmen, Mexico

“Many consider huitlacoche to be Mexican caviar,” says Chef Agusto as he puts the finishing touches on our tacos topped with a glossy, ebony spread. “It’s actually an edible corn fungus (smut) prized for its unique flavour since Aztec times.”

The rustic-chic decor is both contemporary and welcoming
Photo: Michele Peterson

We take tentative bites of our tacos and then dive right in. Despite its less than poetic name, corn smut has a deliciously earthy flavour akin to mushroom. It pairs beautifully with the tang of our hibiscus cocktails.

Our foray into Mexico’s ancestral ingredients at this tutored taco bar/tequila tasting is just one of many memorable experiences available at Impression Moxché by Secrets, an ultra-luxury, resort-within-a-resort adjacent to Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen. Both properties are located within Corasol, a gated residential community 40 minutes from Cancun International Airport and 10 minutes from Playa del Carmen.

Part of the Hyatt Inclusive Collection, this 198-suite, all-inclusive, adult-only luxury resort offers guests the personalized experience of an ultra-luxury boutique stay combined with free-flow access to all of amenities – from restaurants to entertainment — of the much larger Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen. It’s the ideal escape for luxury travellers looking for an elevated level of service in the heart of Riviera Maya.

Rustic-Chic Design

The word Moxché meaning “tree surrounded by roots” in Mayan inspires the property’s vibe. Upon arrival, Impression Moxché by Secrets guests are welcomed into a lobby building that appears to emerge from the jungle in harmony with nature.

Well-appointed oversized suites feature spacious bathrooms

Its design is both glamorous and rustic. The extensive use of pale limestone, dark wood and oversized architectural elements evokes the mangroves and historic pyramids of the Yucatan Peninsula.

It features a lobby bar with premium liquor, a buffet with continental breakfast, afternoon hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, and 24-hour concierge service. Among the elevated Endless Privileges® at Impression by Secrets there are no set check-in or check-out times, so arrival is a seamless process.

The lavish suites are set around a serene interior courtyard. Our spacious (178 m2/1,915SF) Panoramic Suite with Ocean View has a full dining area, living room, wet bar, sparkling wine, liquor and fruit basket, Nespresso coffee machine and a twice-daily refreshed minibar.

In-suite dining area with panoramic views
Photo: Impression Moxché

Decorated in inviting earthy tones and natural textures it also features a wrap-around terrace with loungers and hot tub. In addition to a powder room off the foyer, the bedroom’s marble ensuite bath is decked out with every amenity you could dream of including a soaker tub and rain shower.

There are spectacular ocean views at every turn. And being a corner unit, it offers both sunrise and sunset views.

Thrice-daily housekeeping includes turn-down service. For the ultimate in privacy, a “Secret Box” in the suite allows guests to receive room service delivery and return dishes without being disturbed.

Some room categories also feature swimouts set beneath tropical foliage while the Presidential Beachfront Villa (567 m2/6,100 SF) features two king size beds. Butler service is available from 7am to 11pm. Complimentary laundry service adds to the elevated level of service.

Culinary Highlights

Secluded infinity rooftop pool with restaurant
Photo: Impression Moxché

While it might be tempting to stay cocooned within your posh personal retreat, a wealth of immersive experiences await beyond your suite’s walls. Those who want to soak up 360° views of sky and sea should head first to Cielo, the rooftop infinity pool and restaurant on the 9th floor.

Here, breezy Bali beds are prime spots for sipping a craft cocktail while taking in the sight of the blue Caribbean Sea with the island of Cozumel on the horizon.

Another option for relaxed indulgence is at the Impression Moxché beach club on the ground level. This VIP zone features a sparkling swimming pool, premier beach access and an open-air oceanfront restaurant where you can dine on fresh, seasonally-inspired cuisine presented with flair.

Enjoy elevated cuisine as part of the all-inclusive plan
Photo: Michele Peterson

Menu highlights include a tuna tiradito with watermelon radish ponzu, grilled catch of the day and a sweet dulce de leche lava cake with tropical gelato.

One of advantages of the resort-within-a-resort concept is that in addition to Impression Moxché’s three exclusive restaurants, guests have unlimited access to all the amenities of the adjacent Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen.

Just meander along the stone pathways, shaded by bamboo, mature palms and tropical foliage, to explore 11 more reservation-free dining options plus nine bars and lounges, including a 2-storey sports bar, swim-up bar, pool bars and music lounge.

You’ll also discover that in addition to its multiple pools, Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen has three custom-made cenotes (subterranean grottos), myriad hot tubs, an inland white sand beach with crystal clear waters, tennis/pickleball courts and a fully-equipped fitness centre.

Kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling are just a few of the many water-based options.

Adventure Central

Beyond the exhilarating accommodation experience, another big draw for adventurous spirits is the resort’s proximity to the attractions of the Riviera Maya.

Get a wellness boost in the Hydrotherapy circuit at the
Spa by Pevonia®
Photo: Michele Peterson

Impression Moxché by Secrets is minutes from two tournament-quality 18-hole golf courses. Within the gated Corasol community is Gran Coyote Golf Riviera, designed by PGA legend Nick Price while nearby El Camaleón Mayakoba, Greg Norman’s masterpiece, is rated as the best golf course to play in Mexico. It offers stunning views and challenging fairways lined with mangroves, sand dunes and lagoons.

Luxury travellers will also be intrigued by the mix of natural wonders to explore. Start at Xcaret, a sprawling eco-archeological park that combines nature and culture. Or go scuba diving in a cenote like Dos Ojos (which translates to “Two Eyes”) a flooded cave featuring two sinkholes connected by a subterranean corridor.

Impression Moxché by Secrets - spacious swimouts

Relax in the spacious swimouts
Photo: Michele Peterson

For those into marine life, Xel-Ha offers an all-inclusive experience with luxury cabanas and snorkeling among tropical fish such as sergeant majors, parrotfish and snapper. To elevate your experience further, consider one of the private yacht charters that whisk you away to secluded coves along the coast.

Also appealing is the opportunity to shop for souvenirs, silver jewelry and swimwear in the boutiques on Quinta Avenida, the pedestrian zone of Playa del Carmen, a 10-minute taxi ride away.

Back at the resort, unwind after your outdoor and urban adventures by indulging in a body treatment at the Secrets Spa by Pevonia. There are a wide variety of treatments to choose from as well as a revitalizing hydrotherapy circuit with steam room and sauna.

To help with relaxation, each guest receives a complimentary 20-minute welcome treatment.

Whether you’re tucking into elevated street tacos or basking in a spa treatment, you’ll appreciate the riches of the Riviera Maya offered at Impression Moxché by Secrets.

Travel Planner

Impression Moxche https://www.hyattinclusivecollection.com/en/resorts-hotels/impression-by-secrets/mexico/moxche/

Amstar: Book airport transfer with Amstar and get Cancun Airport pick up and transfer to the resort. amstardmc.com

Michele Peterson is an award-winning travel writer who specializes in food, drink and sun destinations. Her work has appeared in major magazines, guidebooks and travel anthologies. Get global recipes, travel tips and food tour discounts on her A Taste for Travel blog or contact her via Twitter/Instagram @atastefortravel.